How To Start Working Out For Beginners

25Jan

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Gyms can be intimidating especially if you are a beginner. Whether you are unfamiliar with a particular machine or you simply do not know if your form is correct, the key is to look confident. Most gym goers have no idea what they are doing. Even proper form and technique is debated among industry professionals. If you are a true beginner to working out on your own on in a gym setting, follow this how to guide to getting fit while looking like a seasoned pro.

1. Hire a personal trainer.

Hiring a trainer is the safest and wisest way to learn a new gym routine. Many people spend $50-100 a week going out for dinner or drinks. Are you willing to sacrifice one of those nights a month (or week) to feel good about yourself? Think of training as an investment or preventative medicine for your own health. Some gym’s offer free introductory personal training sessions. Ask the front desk and make sure to jot down the exercises after your session. Lastly, make sure your trainer is certified by an accredited organization like ACSM, NASM or NSCA.

2. Create a game plan.

Schedule your workouts in your planner like you would a business meeting or appointment. Morning appointments tend to have a better track record in helping keep a routine. Aim to burn 500-1000 calories with exercise a week. This can be broken up between 3-5 days of exercise. At first, start with what you already know. Brisk walking a mile burns about 100 calories. Try walking on a treadmill (3.5-4 mph, incline 2+) watching the evening news or other favorite half-hour program to burn +250 calories. Do this 2-4 times a week.

About The Author

3 Comments

Sarah,
I found you when i was browsing through some Biggest Loser audition tapes. One of the girls told me, don’t wait to audition -- start now. I’ve been on and off diets my entire life. This summer, I’m deciding to do something. I’m going to be a senior and prom is next may. I want to be at least 50-70lbs lighter. I’m a 17 yr old who is 356. It’s a lot. I know. That’s why I’m planning on losing it. Although do you have any advice?

Hi Amanda, This is a great place to start. I also encourage my readers to check out my top 2 favorite resources for diet information. The most simple and best is Tosca Reno’s Eat Clean Diet (I like the recharged version but there is later one as well). This book is less than $20 and will provide the best nutrition advice that you need to lose weight! This plan here is also a great place to start. You can also check out my friends Tone It Up diet for advice as well. Their plan is pricier at $150 but will give you the motivation during the week to keep going when the book in on your shelf.

Sarah,
I joined Weight Watchers a little over two months ago today. So far I’v e lost a total of 15 pounds with just walking for an hour or so four to five times a week. For the last three weeks since schools been out I have not kept up with either the program nor the exercise I’d like to ask you if you recommend any Weight Watchers recipes and exercises I could keep up with . I’m 17 and weigh 222 lbs and trying to get in the best physical shape i can for my senior prom 2013. Thank you so much for your time.

About Me

My name is Sarah and my goal is to enable your passion for healthy living without giving up your social life. I am a certified personal trainer and mom to Tommy living in Boston, MA.

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I've got lots of Fitness videos on YouTube for free and teach classes in Boston. Currently I'm exclusively teaching a Mommy + Me at Burn Fitness Back Bay on Monday's at 11 am.

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